This salted caramel hot chocolate is a warm hug in a mug! It’s rich and creamy, made with cocoa, milk, and a drizzle of sweet caramel, topped with whipped cream and a pinch of salt.
Nothing beats curling up with this delicious drink on a chilly day. I sometimes go a little overboard with the whipped cream—who can blame me? It’s just too good to resist! ☕️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer. I find that oat milk adds a nice flavor and creaminess without dairy.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is essential for a rich chocolate flavor. If you’re looking for something sweeter, you might try hot cocoa mix in place of cocoa and sugar, but it will alter the taste a bit.
Granulated Sugar: This helps sweeten the hot chocolate. You can lower the sugar content by using a sugar substitute like honey, maple syrup, or even brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add richness. If you prefer a darker taste, go for dark chocolate chips. White chocolate works too for a different take!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel sauce is convenient, but making your own can be super rewarding. You can also use dulce de leche for a different flavor twist!
How Do You Get the Creamiest Hot Chocolate?
The secret to a creamy hot chocolate lies in your milk heating technique. Here’s a quick guide:
- Heat your milk gently over medium heat, allowing it to warm up gradually. This helps it maintain a smooth texture.
- Whisk the cocoa powder and sugar in as soon as the milk is warm. This helps dissolve them better without clumps.
- Adding chocolate chips should be done with constant stirring until they fully melt, ensuring a rich and smooth consistency.
Don’t rush this process! Enjoy the scent and the coziness as you create your drink. A little patience goes a long way!
How to Make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (preferably flaky sea salt for garnish)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salted caramel hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes heating the ingredients and mixing them together before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a festive treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk:
Start by pouring 2 cups of whole milk into a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium heat, stirring gently, until it’s warm but not boiling. You want it hot, but keep an eye on it to avoid boiling over.
2. Mix in Cocoa and Sugar:
Once the milk is warm, add in 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This will give your hot chocolate that delicious chocolatey taste!
3. Add Chocolate Chips:
Now, toss in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate). Keep stirring continuously until the chocolate is completely melted, and the mixture is rich and velvety. This step is crucial for that indulgent texture!
4. Add Flavorings:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of caramel sauce until everything is well combined. This is where the magic happens, bringing that sweet caramel flavor into the hot chocolate!
5. Serve the Hot Chocolate:
Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. It’s time to get creative with the toppings!
6. Add Toppings:
Top each mug generously with mini marshmallows and, if you like, a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top for a finishing touch.
7. Sprinkle with Sea Salt:
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the marshmallows and whipped cream. This little touch elevates the flavor beautifully, balancing the sweetness!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your salted caramel hot chocolate immediately and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious drink on a chilly day. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Non-dairy milks like almond, oat, or soy milk work great as substitutes. Just keep in mind that different non-dairy milks have varying flavors and creaminess, so choose one that you enjoy.
What Can I Use Instead of Caramel Sauce?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can use dulce de leche or even chocolate syrup for a different flavor altogether. You could also make your own caramel if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Vegan?
Yes! Use non-dairy milk and make sure your chocolate chips and caramel sauce are dairy-free (there are many vegan options available). You can create a delicious vegan salted caramel hot chocolate!
